importance when buying? (not a buyers guide request)

[tony07]

ok cool.. ive just had a quick look actually and see what you mean now, a lot more modern looking interiors in most j plates.. so il be on the look out for one of these..

[Waspy]

It might just be that they are younger, but J plate interior also seems more hard wearing (less damaged interiors on J plates).

[Diamond Hell]

The car's for your missus who's recently passed her test, or will do soon?

Buy a Driver with power steering and she can use that for a while until you know what sort of a driver she is.

It'd be a bit sad to pick up a mint, late 16V GTI (and get reamed on insurance) only for her to bounce it off curbs, road furniture and other road users because it's her first car and she's a terrible driver.

[Waspy]

I think that is a little harsh.

If she really loves the GTI in particular then the driver is going to feel like second best. If she is driving a car she loves she will treat it well... In theory 

[Pistol p]

Don't be afraid to spend top money on a top example, they are out there. Source one from an enthusiast who has looked after it and not cut corners. GTI later models are becoming more and more desirable, but watch for rust on post 91 models.